A tourist at home
There’s something magical about winter in Carvoeiro. The buzz of summer fades and the town settles into a quieter, slower rhythm. The streets are less crowded, there’s room to breathe, and suddenly, we locals feel a little like tourists in our own town.
With the rush behind us, winter becomes the perfect moment to rediscover the places that make Carvoeiro special – starting with its restaurants.
Whilst most eateries don’t stay open year-round, the ones that do take on a different charm in winter. The service feels more relaxed, there’s space to linger, and you can sit back and watch the world go by.
So, if you’re lucky enough to find yourself here during the quieter months, here are my top picks in the very centre of Carvoeiro – purely based on where I love to go when the crowds are gone and life takes on a gentler pace.
Breakfast Bliss: Encci
This might just be my favourite place to start the day, especially in winter. Encci feels like a little slice of brunch heaven, with its pastel tones, and a vibe that’s effortlessly cool but not pretentious.
Their brunch runs from 9am to 5pm, which is ideal for those lazy winter mornings.
The menu is full of healthy and delicious options, from smoothie bowls and protein-packed pancakes to hearty avocado toast.
It’s got that modern brunch feel – think vibrant, colourful, and Instagram-worthy – but it’s genuinely good food. The portions aren’t shy, the ingredients are fresh, and best of all, it strikes that rare balance between healthy and indulgent. You can eat well without feeling like you’ve strayed too far from your comfort zone.
It’s also a great place to sit with a coffee and watch the street life trickle by. In winter, Encci feels even more laid-back – you’re not competing with the summer crowd for a table, and the staff have time for a chat and a smile, which makes all the difference.
Lunch with Soul: Earth Shop & Café
At the top of restaurant hill, you’ll find Earth – a place that feels like the cozy cousin to Encci. It’s got a similar all-day brunch concept but with its own twist and atmosphere. The decor is relaxed, with mismatched touches that feel intentional and warm.
The food is amazing. Their menu includes everything from Eggs Benedict to homemade lasagne and burritos – so there’s genuinely something for everyone. It’s the kind of place you could visit with your gym buddy or your most indulgent friend and both leave feeling happy.
Again, everything feels fresh, vibrant, and made with care. You can taste the quality in the ingredients, and it’s clear the team takes pride in their food. Earth is incredibly welcoming, and like Encci, it thrives in winter.
There’s time to savour every bite without the pressure of an overflowing dining room. The whole experience feels a bit like being in someone’s beautifully styled kitchen.
Dinner Done Right: Touriga Wine & Dine
When it comes to dinner, especially on these chillier nights, I always find myself drawn to Touriga. It’s become a bit of a classic in Carvoeiro’s dining scene, and for good reason.
The space is cosy, intimate, and designed for sharing; literally. Their menu revolves around small plates and sharing dishes, perfect for grazing your way through traditional Portuguese flavours but with a modern, tapas-style twist.
From charcuterie and local cheeses to fish dishes and seasonal specials, everything that comes out of the kitchen is consistently good. It’s the type of place where you’re happy to leave your choices in the hands of the staff.
They know the menu inside out, the service is attentive without being pushy, and the vibe is perfect for a relaxed winter night.
But the real stars are the wines. Touriga boasts the biggest selection in town, and yes, you can order most of them by the glass.
Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or a novice, it’s such a fun place to explore new flavours and pairings and it’s exactly where you want to be when the temperature drops.
Carvoeiro might be quieter in winter, but quieter doesn’t mean dull. It means space to rediscover the charm of this village like a visitor and reconnect with what makes it truly special.
These restaurants are just a few of my personal favourites, and whilst not every place stays open through the colder months, those that do offer experiences worth savouring.
So, embrace these quieter months, enjoy the quality time with friends or family – or just yourself – and make the most of winter dining in Carvoeiro. These moments won’t last long before the summer buzz returns, and suddenly, you’ll be longing for the calm again.
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